My interest in craft beer began in 2008 when I traveled to Finland, Sweden and Ukraine. Having the opportunity to sample beers not available in the U.S. was a very memorable experience, so much so that I decided to combine my passion for travel and writing with my newfound love, craft beer. As a result, this blog was established in 2009.

Back in my Miami days, mojitos, martinis and margaritas dominated the drinking scene, from South Beach to the suburbs. In the early 2000s, beer was an afterthought for the South Florida beverage manager, who made sure his or her bar was stocked with top shelf vodka, tequila and plenty of cachaça, limes and fresh mint.

Spring is in the air – the flowers are sprouting, people are enjoying bike rides and walks in the park or around their neighborhoods. While some people are able to take that spring break trip to Cancun or Fort Meyers, others are on a tight budget.